Households should understand that the winter months are a busy time for chimney repair professionals, meaning they should have their chimney flues inspected during the summer.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), many homeowners focus on their swimming pools or gardens when the sun is shining and give little consideration to their chimneys.
However, more people require the services of chimney sweeps and repair men when winter sets in, meaning it can be difficult to schedule an appointment.
Ashley Eldridge, director of education at the CSIA, said that taking action now can stop problems further down the line.
"By scheduling now, you will have the time to complete any necessary repairs before the start of the heating season. Not to mention the peace of mind you will get knowing that your fireplace or wood stove is ready to go for those dark days of winter," he added.
Those whose chimney flue have become damaged should not attempt to repair it themselves, writer Dennis Moore Hopkins said in an entry on Ezine Articles.